In June 2025, the Queensland Family and Child Commission (QFCC) released a significant progress update on its ongoing review into systemic responses to child sexual abuse. This review, led by the Child Death Review Board, is examining how Queensland’s institutions and systems—including early childhood education, police, and the Blue Card system—respond to allegations and risks of child sexual abuse.
A Key Finding: The Need for Clearer Complaints Management
One pressing issue identified in the report is the lack of clarity and consistency in complaints management policies, particularly within early childhood education and care (ECEC) centres. The review found that:
- Complaints processes are often unclear, especially when the person subject to a complaint holds a senior role or is involved in the investigation.
- Fear of reputational damage, defamation, or legal consequences can be a deterrent to raising and sharing concerns.
- Information sharing protocols and fear of privacy breaches are often vague, leading to missed opportunities to detect patterns of harm.
- The casualised nature of the workforce and high staff turnover further complicate robust complaint handling and follow-up.
These gaps can result in serious delays or failures in responding to concerns, leaving children vulnerable and communities frustrated, or at worst, harmed.
Why This Matters
Effective child-focused complaints management is a cornerstone of child safety. When community members, staff, or families raise concerns, they must be met with transparent, child-focused, and accountable processes. Without this, early warning signs may be ignored, and systemic issues may persist undetected.
How We Can Help
If your organisation works with children and you’re unsure whether your complaints management policies meet best-practice standards, or if you want to strengthen your procedures to align with community and regulator expectations, we’re here to support you. Contact us today for tailored advice and practical assistance. Together, we can help ensure your organisation is a safe, responsive, and trusted place for children and families.
Please don’t hesitate to contact our office on 1300-VOC-LAW / 1300-862-529 or email: enquiry@vocarelaw.com.au
This article was written by James Tan
**The information contained herein does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice and is for general informational purposes only.
